Does The Crown need a disclaimer?

Payton Zagacki, Editor-in-Chief

The English government and royal family are on the defense following the release of the fourth season of the Netflix original series “The Crown,” demanding Netflix puts a disclaimer drawing attention to the fictional aspects of the series. Does “The Crown” need the disclaimer that the government demands?

The answer is no. There is no need for Netflix to add a disclaimer on the series. The show is already labeled as a historical drama, implying the fiction in the events discussed. There is no need for the show to go the extra mile for this new season. In the past it is said that the royal family tolerated and possibly even enjoyed the show. So why is the fourth season any different?

This may be due to the addition of Lady Diana and her relationship with Prince Charles. The show portrays Prince Charles as the villain of the relationship, something that may or may not have actually happened. Seeing as he is the future king it is understandable that the government has an issue with the way he is portrayed, causing the request for a disclaimer. This season also shows the way the royal family treated Lady Diana shining a not so positive light on the royal family.

This season of “The Crown” in particular definitely shows a side of the royal family they don’t want anyone to see. By adding a disclaimer Netflix would help them save face and keep their reputation intact. If the series is already labeled as a drama Netflix is in no way obligated to put a disclaimer on the show.

“The Crown” follows the reign of Queen Elizabeth II after the death of her father. It focuses on the political rivalries and romances present during Queen Elizabeth II reign and the events that shaped the second half of the twentieth century. With a cast that rotates every two seasons, “The Crown” is rated TV-MA and is found in the TV drama section of Netflix. Season four is streaming now.